A topic I have always been fascinated by is the possibility of other life forms outside of our planet. Given the size of our universe and what is even beyond it, it is most certainly more than possible.

I have often heard that Mars is the most livable planet other than Earth. Scientists in the UK and Greece collaborated on an investigation on Nakhla, the Martian meteorite. Research found that Mars did indeed once have water. And what is one element necessary to most forms of life? Water. The environment on Mars is said to be neither too cold nor too hot. Another pro for the capability of fostering life.

While on the subject of meteorites, Allan Hills 84001 was found in Allan Hills, Antarctica in 1984. The Allan Hills meteorite is among one of the oldest found. It is commonly accepted that the rock formed 4 billion years ago on Mars. It is also noted by Astrobio.com that Allan Hills 84001 had been on Earth for 13,000 years before its discovery.  What is specifically significant about this meteorite is the “presence of 300-micron-wide carbonate globules that make up 1% of the rock” (Astrobio.net) It was determined by the scientists examining the rock that the carbonate was likely developed in the presence of water. Another find within the rock were fossils that resembled the shape of worms.

It is reported by History.com that there is support of ancient aliens visiting earth years ago. Specifically the Moai of Easter Island, there are 887 human-like figures which are about 13 feet tall and weigh around 14 tons. Given that these are 500 years old, how could such colossal and intricate structures be crafted in a time of such limited technology? This one is definitely a stretch but it is still possible.

Europa, the moon of Jupiter shows evidence of once having a liquid ocean. Additionally, it has been suggested that Europa has or had a suitable climate for life. Nasa notes,”There also were tantalizing hints that perhaps Europa had a warm interior at some time in the past, and perhaps still does. Studies of how tidal heating should affect Europa suggested that a global subsurface ocean might exist within the icy moon today.” (NASA)

Skeptics may be skeptics, but there is no conclusive proof that life on other planets is impossible. There are approximately 100,000 stars in the Milky Way. Beyond that, there are millions of galaxies. If there is life in this one, why would life be improbable in others?

Sources:

http://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/article/?id=12797

http://www.astrobio.net/news-exclusive/the-continuing-controversy-of-the-mars-meteorite/

http://www.nbcnews.com/id/28148553/ns/technology_and_science-space/t/six-frontiers-alien-life/#.VBuSLEtH1lI

https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/europa/evidence.cfm